New NSTA Kids Books Teach Students Biology

Five new books encourage elementary school children to enjoy reading about animals' characteristics and protective coloring, seasonal changes in trees, the workings of the food chain and life cycles, and the fun of observing an unusual pet. The books are part of the I Wonder Why series from NSTA Kids, a division of NSTA Press. Their author is noted science educator Lawrence F. Lowery. Click to tweet about this book.

Teachers and parents can use these age-appropriate resources to supplement and extend science programs and develop children's interest in biological science. The I Wonder Why books include lively narratives and observations that combine sound science with colorful graphics. At the end of each book is a Parent/Teacher Handbook that provides background information on the topic, as well as biology-related activities.

Animals Two by Two gives children practice comparing similarities and differences in animals that are easy to tell apart, such as zebras and horses, and those that are more difficult to identify, such as seals and sea lions. Browse free sample pages at the NSTA Science Store website. (Stock # PB330X20, ISBN # 978-1-941316-28-3)

Looking for Animals pairs pictures of the same creatures in two different settings so kids can explore the role of protective coloration-nature's own camouflage-in everything from bumblebees to beavers. Browse free sample pages at the NSTA Science Store website. (Stock # PB330X19, ISBN # 978-1-941316-27-6)

Our Very Own Tree tells of two friends who "adopt" an oak tree in a park and see everything from the seasons to the tree's structure with fresh eyes. Browse free sample pages at the NSTA Science Store website. (Stock # PB330X16, ISBN # 978-1-941316-24-5)

The Tree by Diane's House, the story of a growing girl and a budding tree, is written in the lively rhythm of "The House That Jack Built." Browse free sample pages at the NSTA Science Store website. (Stock # PB330X17, ISBN # 978-1-941316-25-2)

Tommy's Turtle offers subtle lessons about both pet care and the rewards of close observation as an animal friend swims, crawls, and retreats into its shell. Browse free sample pages at the NSTA Science Store website. (Stock # PB330X18, ISBN # 978-1-941316-26-9)

Each of the 36-page books in this series is priced at $11.95 and discount-priced for NSTA members at $9.56.

For additional information or to purchase any of the I Wonder Why books, visit the NSTA Science Store. To order by phone, call 800-277-5300 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET weekdays.

About the Author

Lawrence F. Lowery taught in the Oakland, California, public schools before becoming a professor of science education at the University of California, Berkeley. He has more than 40 years' experience creating science activities and programs, developing curricula, and writing articles and books, including the NSTA Press publication The Everyday Science Sourcebook.

About NSTA

The Arlington, VA-based National Science Teachers Association is the largest professional organization in the world promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all. NSTA's current membership includes approximately 55,000 science teachers, science supervisors, administrators, scientists, business and industry representatives, and others involved in science education.

NSTA Press produces 25 to 30 new books and e-books each year. Focused on the preK-college market and specifically aimed at teachers of science, NSTA Press titles offer a unique blend of accurate scientific content and sound teaching strategies. Follow NSTA Press on Facebook for the latest information and new book releases.